Like I said on Tuesday, my Rebel started dying in January. The shutter has basically just been really slow, the camera hasn’t been focusing well (especially inside in low light), etc. I found myself not reaching for my camera very much. I looked into getting it repaired, but the cost didn’t seem worth it, especially given the age and number of shots fired (easily over 40K). Thankfully, in April my sweet mother gave me her Rebel to use until we could afford a new SLR.

I began researching SLRs and decided to upgrade from the Rebel series to the 40D. I found that I could get a used 40D (with only a few thousand shots fired) for about the same price as a new Rebel. Since Rebels generally last about 40K actuations and 40D’s last about 100K, this made a ton of sense to me.

Here are some other differences I found between the two cameras:

The body of the 40D is much nicer. My Rebel feels like a toy in comparison.

The 40D has a weather sealing so if you were shooting in light rain, it would be protected.

The 40D has a better automatic setting.

The pictures are larger (10 MB vs. 8 MB).

The battery lasts about twice as long with the 40D.

It has a 3″ LCD screen which is AMAZING!

I know that the 40D has a bunch of “professional” settings and capabilities that I don’t understand yet, but they definitely blow the Rebel out of the water.

So if you are considering purchasing a new Rebel, I would DEFINITELY look at buying a used 40D. I considered a 50D, but the differences are so subtle that I didn’t think it was necessary for me. I bought mine on Amazon and am super happy with my purchase.

A reader recently asked how I carry my camera and the answer is in my epiphanie bag. I love it because it is so big that it fits my camera, a lens, purse stuff and even a few items for Elias.

The other new camera I purchased was Canon PowerShot SD 1300 to keep in my purse. I have had my old pocket camera for about three years and have just been really unhappy with its limited settings. The PowerShot is amazing!! It has tons of features and acts like it is a mini SLR. Very powerful, great zoom, lightweight and just really, really nice. I saved my Swagbucks for about six months to buy this baby and it was worth the wait. (Sidenote: If you aren’t using Swagbucks to search and earn free digital dollars, you are missing out! I LOVE this site!)

Currently, I am looking for websites that will help me improve my photography skills. Do you have any you recommend? I have really been digging Willette Designs. Check it out for some major inspiration, including an awesome free download of 100 summer photo ideas. I’m totally “clicking” through her list.